What does Cayleigh mean and where does it come from?
Cayleigh is a modern name that has gained popularity in recent decades, particularly in the United States. It is often considered a variant of the name Kaylee, which is derived from the Irish surname O'Caollaidhe, meaning 'slim' or 'fair'. The name is often associated with a cheerful and lively pers
Cultural significance
Cayleigh has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1441 in 2009 — currently #5023 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cayleigh?
Cayleigh works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cayleigh Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cayleigh Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cayleigh Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cayleigh Claire
French influence · crisp
Cayleigh Jane
Literary · strong
Cayleigh Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cayleigh right now?
Falling — down 1041 spots — currently #5023 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #5023 | 26 | ▼ down 1041 · -30% births |
| 2022 | #3982 | 37 | ▼ down 1197 · -39% births |
| 2021 | #2785 | 61 | ▼ down 422 · -18% births |
| 2020 | #2363 | 74 | ▲ up 75 · -1% births |
| 2015 | #2438 | 75 | ▼ down 875 · -47% births |
| 2010 | #1563 | 142 | ▲ up 669 · +73% births |
| 2005 | #2232 | 82 | ▲ up 697 · +67% births |
| 2000 | #2929 | 49 | ▲ up 2255 · +158% births |
| 1995 | #5184 | 19 | ▲ up 633 · +19% births |
| 1990 | #5817 | 16 | — |
The story of Cayleigh
Cayleigh is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1986. With 2,113 total births recorded, Cayleigh remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5817 in 1990 to #5023 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cayleigh in 2009:
Cayleigh by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 51 | |
| 1990s | 249 | |
| 2000s | 757 | |
| 2010s ★ | 982 | |
| 2020s | 74 | |
💎With 2,113 total births, Cayleigh is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Cayleigh?
What names sound and feel like Cayleigh?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cayleigh also consider these
Common questions about the name Cayleigh
What does the name Cayleigh mean?
Cayleigh means "English" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Cayleigh?
Cayleigh is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Cayleigh?
Cayleigh originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Cayleigh a common or rare name?
Cayleigh is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Cayleigh?
Cayleigh naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.